Omron Develops Market’s Smallest Tactile Switches

Measuring 1.2 mm x 3 mm x 2.5 mm, the B3U series surface-mount tactile switches may be the smallest such components available in their class. They offer an SPST-NO contact configuration with a switching capacity of 1 mA to 50 mA at 5 to 12 Vdc with a maximum initial contact resistance of 100 mΩ. Sporting a dust-proof design, the switches are available in top- or side-actuated configurations, a ground-terminal version that provides protection against static discharge, and with or without a locating boss. Other features include an operating temperature range from –25°C to +70°C in 60% humidity without icing or condensation and RoHS compliance. The top-actuated model (B3U-1000 series) has a minimum life expectancy of 200,000 operations. while the side-actuated model (B3U-3000 series) has a minimum life expectancy of 100,000 operations. Operating force for the B3U-1000 is 153gf ±50 gf, and the B3U-3000 is 162 gf ±50 gf. Minimum release force for both is 20.3 gf. In full-reel quantities, price for the B3U-1000 series is $0.392 each/3,500 and for the B3U-3000 is $0.392 each/4,000. OMRON ELECTRONIC COMPONENTS LLC, Schaumburg, IL. (847) 882-2033.